We recently attended the Standard Bank Top Women Virtual Conference and could listen in and contribute to the various fascinating conversations taking place. One of these conversations included an inspiring session on the Ultimate career strategies from women who rise above the noise. Successes, habits and insights from women obliterating the gender gap.
We wanted to capture and share some of the profound statements and insights from the participants.
"If you want to quit. look behind you" - Shiphra Chisha
This statement by Shiphra was particularly profound. We acknowledge the many existing and previous challenges women have faced. We see them and feel them. But the women who came before us fought hard for us to be where we are now. The negative experiences can be used as learnings to better our future, no matter how painful. We choose to be forward-focused in all that we do because of the pains of our past.
Despite the transformation that has taken place for women in business, women continue to face challenges.
Challenges women in business face
- In South Africa only 30% of management in business is female
- More women need to be taught leadership skills
- Gender and racial inequality in business
- HR challenges related to role and position selection
“Our mothers gave us the skills so that we can be the voice for other women who cannot - we are the voice of the voiceless” Unknown.
Having said this; The opportunities are visible and tangible. The time is now to drive more diversity and inclusion of women in business. Below are practical opportunities to further the progression of change for women in business:
Opportunities
- Identify and challenge the roadblocks such as traditions and policies. Call them out appropriately.
- Practise deep introspection daily to overcome self-doubt and Imposter Syndrome.
- Evangelise breaking the bias of how women and working mothers are viewed in the workplace
- Proactively campaign to facilitate a mindset change at all levels within a patriarchal culture.
- Proactively work on developing leadership skills.
In addition, we recommend furthering your soft skills development through various training institutions available in South Africa. One such course is offered under the guidance of Tilly Govender, at The Mindwiz Academy. Govender says, “Leadership sees the possibilities in a situation while others see the limitations. We can rise above - leadership skills can be honed”.
Women need concrete future-focused leadership skills. If you are self-funding and need to find an outstanding, affordable leader development programme focused on 21st Century skills we also recommend Engagement Dynamics as an option.
How to rise above the noise
- Have a sense of purpose and nothing will fail you
- Be consistent in your pursuit
- Exercise emotional intelligence when addressing bias
- Focus on your goal is the best strategy to excel
- Become resilient despite historical and current challenges
- Laser-focused intention and execution
- Self-belief is critical. Keep in mind the women that went before us to break barriers
At RecruitMyMom we choose to dispel a bias against working mothers. We exist to improve the lives of millions of women (and children) through innovative recruitment solutions. Companies trust us to find high-calibre skills that deliver results; remote or in the office. Our values of compassion for others are deeply rooted in our day-to-day interactions with each other and our clients. Today, our community consists of over 100 000 skilled Moms (and other career-flex workers) and thousands of progressive employers.
If you are looking to employ and empower a female workforce then visit our website for more information www.recruitmymom.co.za.
